- Current Age?
40
- Nationality
England
- Where do you live now?
London, England
- Occupation
Civil Servant
- When it comes to travel accommodation (but leaving out crashing with friends, family or people you meet on the road), how often do you stay in hostels?
This was my first time hosteling.
- Where have you hosteled?
Africa
- Would you stay in a hostel again on future trips?
Yes
- Why or why not?
It was great to meet interesting, friendly, down-to-earth people from all over the world. Everyone pretty much talked to everyone, unlike in hotels.
- Out of all your experiences hosteling, what was your:
- Best Moment
Being entertained by Chris, the barman, playing Lenny Kravitz air guitar!
- Worst Moment
Leaving.
- Biggest Hurdle, Obstacle or Difficulty?
Trying not to eat too much 'all you can eat' breakfast!
- Biggest surprise?
Lovely entrance hall and staircase.
- Do you ever book any of your hostel accommodation in advance?
Always
- Why or why not?
No point in waiting till you get there, if you can book in advance.
- Who is the most memorable person you met in a hostel and why?
Chris the barman, at the Big Blue Backpackers hostel in Cape Town, South Africa. He is the best barman I've ever come across: friendly, interesting, entertaining, attentive and with an encyclopaedic mind. He'll go far.
- Why do you stay in hostels, as opposed to other types of accommodation?
Hostels are unpretentious, affordable and it's easier to chat to people in them than in places like hotels.
- Is there a hostel you'd recommend to other travelers? If so, what is it and where?
The Big Blue, Vesperdene Road, Cape Town, South Africa
- What is the biggest myth people have about hostels and hosteling?
That people get murdered, or the place gets bombed or set on fire!
- Why do you like to travel?
So that I can escape from the drudgery of everyday life in London, broaden my mind and remind myself that I must live, rather than just exist!
- What is your advice for other travelers wanting to stay in hostels?
Do it. Book in advance. Be friendly and chat to as many people as possible in the bar or at breakfast. Also, private rooms with en suite bathrooms are often available if you need privacy.
